Medical Anthropology
The Master of Philosophy in Medical Anthropology at the University of Oxford is a full-time, 21-month program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the intersection between culture, health, and medicine. This program examines how social, cultural, and environmental factors influence health and healthcare practices, with a particular focus on the diverse ways in which medical systems operate around the world. Students will study key topics such as global health, medical practices, health disparities, and the role of ethnographic research in understanding medical issues across different societies.
Oxford's MPhil in Medical Anthropology combines anthropological theory with practical research methodologies, enabling students to explore medical systems from a global perspective. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in public health, global health policy, medical research, and academic research, where they can apply their anthropological insights to address health challenges in diverse cultural contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Medical Anthropology
- Degree Type: Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
- Duration: 21 Months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Start Date: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: Anthropology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
The MPhil in Medical Anthropology offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining anthropological theory with practical research methodologies in medical contexts. Students will take core modules in areas such as global health, health disparities, ethnographic methods, and medical ethics. The program also includes fieldwork opportunities where students can apply their learning to real-world health issues. A significant part of the program involves independent research, culminating in a thesis that allows students to explore a specific topic in medical anthropology in depth.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MPhil in Medical Anthropology are equipped to pursue careers in global health, medical research, policy analysis, and public health. Many alumni work in international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, or academic institutions, contributing to healthcare policy development, health intervention programs, and medical research. The program’s strong focus on research skills and global health challenges also provides a foundation for students wishing to pursue doctoral studies or other advanced research opportunities.
Why Choose This Program
The MPhil in Medical Anthropology at the University of Oxford provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to study global health issues from an anthropological perspective. The program is taught by leading experts in medical anthropology, and students benefit from Oxford’s extensive research resources and its network of global health professionals. The unique blend of theoretical learning and practical ethnographic research prepares graduates to address complex health challenges in diverse cultural contexts, making them highly qualified for careers in global health and policy development.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)1865 270000
Email: admissions@ox.ac.uk
Address: University of Oxford, University Parks, Oxford OX1 2JD, United Kingdom
